I don't know anyone who really enjoys packing but we all have to do it before we head to our destination. I have compiled a list of the most essential travel accessories you need for your trip to Croatia, but equally will help you anywhere else you choose to travel to in Europe. I have been traveling to Croatia since 2010, so I can say with confidence I have had some practice with this and have learned from my mistakes. But, you don't have to make the same blunders I did if you add these items to your packing list. You will be able to leave your worries at your doorstep and feel well prepared and stress free for your vacation.
Traveling to the north coast?
Check out our Travel Guide to Rijeka and our Travel Guide to Opatija.
1. Checked Luggage:
I had the same set of Samsonite luggage for 18 years and then finally after having three missing zippers that I had to battle with to get working again by adding a ribbon pull and also one broken wheel I bought a new hard case luggage piece. I had to buy another Samsonite because my previous suitcase lasted so long and I traveled all over the world with it, so that's quality to me and I am loyal to Samsonite now. My husband travels even more than me and he had his Samsonite suitcase for 12 years. We also bought him a new Samsonite suitcase as well after all this time and all his trips.
Some people are soft case luggage people and other people are hard case luggage people. I really think it's just a personal preference at the end of the day, not about one being necessarily better than the other. I had a soft case for 18 years and I thought why not try a hard case this time? The only thing I worry about with a hard case is it getting dents or scratches that are more visible than what you would see with a soft case. I have not noticed that the soft case feels lighter than the hard case.
If you're traveling all the way from the states to Croatia you probably will be staying for more than seven days and need space for all the things you want to bring, but also all the things you will want to bring back with you from Croatia, like wine, olive oil, souvenirs, etc. So, I would suggest bringing a larger suitcase. I really like when the luggage has a TSA lock because when you're traveling to multiple countries and your luggage is checked it's always a worry something valuable in your suitcase could be stolen and this helps put your mind at ease.
2. Carry-On:
For a carry-on I suggest a small airline approved size suitcase, backpack or tote bag/duffel bag. Again, I think this depends on your personal preference which kind of carry-on you prefer rather than one being better than the other.
In this day and age it is such an apprciated feature when there is a USB port to charge your phone, tablet or computer if you have a portable battery with you. Travel times to Croatia from the US can be long and you can have lengthy connecting flights, so this is definitely a necessity.
Another great design that is more unfortunately needed is an anti-theft pocket, for when you are pushing through busy airport crowds where thieves are more easily able to pickpocket you. If you can find a carry-on that is water resistant, even better, so if you get stuck traveling in the rain, there is no need to worry about your valuables getting wet.
As a former professional dancer, I used to love duffel bags but they can be so heavy and uncomfortable on your shoudlers so make sure you look for one that is lightweight and fits under your seat perfectly.
3. Portable Charger:
Purchase a portable charger that works with your phone, tablet or laptop so if any of your devices are running out of juice while you travel, this will save you having to find a random plug around the airport.
4. Luggage Scale:
Your checked luggage cannot be more than 50 lbs. without having to pay a fee for it being overweight. If you are traveling back from Croatia it will be no more than 23 kilos. I always bring a luggage scale with me because I am determined not to go overweight and have to pay the fee. Get one that is handheld and compact, so you can throw it in your luggage after you check it's weight. It should be simple to use, sturdy and have a clear display, I prefer a digital one.
Heading to the beach?
Read our 8 Great Places on the Crikvenica Riviera and
5. Toiletries Bag:
If you are bringing some toiletries that you are worried you will not be able to find in Croatia then look for one that is water resistant if a toiletry breaks or spills and has several compartments for you to organize all your things. Even better if it has the option to easily hang up in the closet, bathroom or other convenient spot.
6. Neck Pillow:
I have had a few neck pillows over the years and the issues I always have is that it either does not support your chin if it drops when you nod off or it pushes too much on the back of your neck. Everyone has their preference on comfiness and how they like thier head to rest so find one that ergonomically fits to your neck and chin. Make sure it's machine washable because you want to be able to clean it after the plane ride.
7. Headphones:
It's a long flight to Croatia and you're probably going to want to watch some movies or TV shows or at least listen to music. Ear buds after a few hours start to make the inside of my ears ache which is why I really like headphonse with soft cushions over the ears. If you're looking for this kind of headphones, make sure they are light, soft and padded on your ears without being bulky and even better if they are foldable so they can fit in your carry-on.
8. Travel Plug Adapter and Converter:
Croatia (and the rest of Europe) use a different kind of plug so you will need an adapter to charge your phone, computer, tablet, etc. and they can have a different voltage so then you need a converter to use your hair dryer, hair straightener, curling iron, etc. An adapter and converter combination are best so you have both in one compact device. Some also come with USB ports.
9. English to Croatian Dictionary:
I'm really lucky because my husband is Croatian but most Croatians can speak English and will understand you. Now that we have been together since 2010 my Croatian has improved and I am taking private lessons once a a week with Linda from Croatian Lanaguage School, but I still refer to my dictionary and phrasebook from time to time and I think it is an excellent accessory to pack, especially if it's your first time to Croatia. Even if all you learn are basic words or phrases, Croatians appreciate that you at least tried to speak their language.
10. Airalo Electronic SIM App
I used to always go to a local phone carrier once arriving in Croatia to get a SIM card to put in my phone to use voice, messaging and data for my stay. Technology is constantly advancing and with apps like Whats App, Viber and Facebook Messenger you no longer need voice and messaging, you really just need data. The Airalo app makes this so simple and it's very affordable. Download the free app, choose the country you are visiting and it will give you several plan options to choose from depending on how many days you need and how much data you want. Pay for the plan, follow some basic instructions and within a minute or so you are connected and using your phone. Airalo notifies you a couple days before your plan runs out and it's even easier to extend your plan if you need to by automatically connecting the next plan.
Want more travel tips? Take a look at our 5 Most Important.
Some travel accessories are going to be a bit of an investment, like luggage, but look how long mine lasted. I definitely got my money's worth! Some are multi-functional, so even after you travel to Croatia you can still use your headphones, backpack or tote bag and portable charger. Some accessories can be used for shorter trips, even if you drive instead of fly. Add all these to your packing list and get ready for a relaxing trip and fabulous vacation in Croatia!
North Coast Croatia Travel Agency specializes in travel to Croatia and surrounding European countries. Providing consultations, custom itineraries, pre-designed theme itineraries, summer beach rentals and a travel blog. Booking flights, accommodations, cruises, tours, rental cars, transfers, bus/train/ferry tickets, travel insurance and more!
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Happy Travels! Stretan Put!
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